Hi everyone, my name is Raj, and I am a senior at George Washington University studying Economics and Finance. This semester, I am studying abroad at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. I expected a fair amount of culture shock arriving in a new country, but it is safe to say it did not happen in all of the ways I had expected.
As soon as I arrived at my apartment in Milan I realized it was, at least for me, dinnertime. My roommate and I walked around our new neighborhood, and found a nice-looking Italian spot that seemed perfect for our first meal in the city. When we asked for a table for two, the host looked almost appalled, claiming 6:30 was far too early for dinner, but that we were welcome to sit for aperitvo instead.
At first I had no idea what our host was talking about, but soon enough he brought out drinks and a tray with a spread of small bites; potato chips, olives, focaccia, and some prosciutto. While it wasn’t the giant plate of pasta I had envisioned, I started to get a glimpse of what aperitivo was really about.
Over the next few weeks I came to realize this was not just a one-time experience. This small meal is deeply engrained in Italian culture, especially here in Milan. It is a nice relaxing time between the end of classes or work and dinner when friends gather to unwind and share each other’s company. While it felt strange at first, it is something my friends and I have come to look forward to at least a few times a week.
Some of my favorite memories in Milan so far have started with an aperitivo. It’s where I’ve met new friends, practiced my Italian, and saw first hand how something this simple can make you feel at home in a new place.
Raj Hanson
Fall 2025
GW Exchange - Bocconi University
Columbian College of Arts and Science
Economics & Finance Double Major